Missing DNA study helps understanding of obesity, says heart charity

4 February 2010

New research published in Nature has found that a small number of obese people are missing a section of their DNA. The study found that 7 in every 1000 obese people had this genetic variation. Commenting on the study June Davison, Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said:

"This new research may provide part of the explanation as to why some people may be more prone to becoming very overweight.

"This work adds to the growing body of evidence that the weight problems of some people could be due to genetic variations.

"A better understanding of these genes could help us identify people who may be more vulnerable to obesity. They could then be offered preventative measures, support and treatment to help improve their long term health.

"However, this is not the only reason for the high levels of obesity we're currently seeing. Worryingly, around 1 in 4 people in the UK are obese and the main contributors are eating unhealthily and not being active enough."

"If you are overweight, obese, or if you have a waist size that is increased, it is important to make changes to your lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet and doing regular physical activity to reduce your risk of heart health problems."

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